The spreading stems of this impressive shrub are clothed in large, deep green leaves, which have a paler and somewhat downy reverse. However, it's primarily grown for its flowers, which can grow up to 10cm across. Made up of creamy white petals and a prominent burgundy and pale greenish yellow eye, they are also lightly scented. They appear over a relatively long period from late spring, and because they are pendent, they can quite easily be admired from the ground. A substantial and showy plant, it could also be trained as a tree in smaller gardens.
How to care for Magnolia sieboldii subsp. sinensis:
Requires minimal pruning. Remove any broken, diseased or crossing branches in midsummer. The best time to plant is in April, adding plenty of ericaceous compost to the planting hole, in a sheltered spot. Mulch in spring with manure and leafmould, especially on dry soils.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
6m
Eventual spread:
8m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
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This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.